Shorts & 3/4s

After a good saddle, shorts are the most important factor in cycling comfort if you ride more than a few miles at a time.

Classic cycling shorts are made from stretchy Nylon/Lycra fabric with a pad inside that provides a soft surface for your bum, and a bit of padding. You wear them without underwear and the most comfortable style — bib shorts — has built in braces to hold them up.

If you find Lycra a bit revealing, baggy shorts intended for mountain biking are a comfortable alternative.